Product Summary

The Synchronous belt also called timing belt, or cam belt (informal usage), is a part of an internal combustion engine that controls the timing of the engine's valves. The term "timing belt" is sometimes used for the more general case of any flat belt with integral teeth, although such usage is a misnomer since there is no timing or synchronization involved.
The timing belt/chain connects the crankshaft to the camshaft(s), which in turn controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves in the internal combustion engine application. It has teeth to turn the camshaft(s) synchronized with the crankshaft, and is specifically designed for a particular engine. In some engine designs, the timing belt may also be used to drive other engine components such as the water pump and oil pump.
The manufacturer may also recommend the replacement of other parts, such as the water pump, when the timing belt is replaced because the additional cost to replace the water pump is negligible compared to the cost of accessing the timing belt. Synchronous belts are typically covered by metal or polymer timing belt covers which require removal for inspection or replacement. Engine manufacturers recommend replacement at specific intervals.